Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Frequently asked questions
- What types of programs are offered?
- Can I take all of my courses online?
- Will I be required to enroll in courses other than computer science?
- Do I have to attend every class?
- Is work outside of class required?
- When may I use the computer lab?
- Can I get assistance outside the classroom?
- Are tutors available?
- Can I receive evaluated credit for work experience?
- Can I transfer all courses I take at CTC to other colleges?
- Do I have to take departmental courses in the sequence listed on the program of study?
- Are all courses offered every semester?
- Which departmental courses are offered in the summer?
- When are the online departmental courses offered?
- How do online courses differ from those in the classroom?
- Do I have to take every course listed on the program of study?
- I have more questions about Computer Information Technology and Systems at CTC. Where can I find answers?
1. What types of programs are offered?
The Computer Information Technology and Systems department offers one Associate of Science (AS) degree, four Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degrees, and many Certificates of Completion (CC).
2. Can I take all of my courses online?
Almost, if a course is not taught online, there is a substitute available that is taught online.
3. Will I be required to enroll in courses other than those in Computer Information Technology and Systems?
All two-year Degrees and some Certificates have requirements in addition to departmental courses. All courses are listed within the programs of study and certificate plans.
4. Do I have to attend every class?
Yes, our departmental classes are fairly intensive. One of the factors which greatly contributes to a student's success in a departmental course is attending every lecture. Before enrolling in a departmental course, prospective students should assure there will be no conflicts preventing them from attending class. Missed classes are a prime reason for failing grades.
5. Is work outside of class required?
Yes. In all departmental classes, work outside of class is required. In a programming class, laboratory work (the writing of computer programs) can consume an additional 10 or more hours per week.
6. When may I use the computer lab?
Students may use the computer labs whenever they are open and a class is not currently using said lab. We have multiple labs and you may be asked to relocate to one of them for incoming classes. Click Here for Hours
You will need to read and accept the Computer Information Technology and Systems department computer use agreement.
7. Can I get assistance outside the classroom?
Yes. Each instructor has scheduled lab hours when they are fully available to students. Additionally, lab assistants are also available and can usually help with specific questions.
8. Are tutors available?
Lab assistants are available in the Computer Labs to help with specific questions about departmental coursework and may be able to provide explanations of concepts from a different perspective.
9. Can I receive evaluated credit for work experience?
Possibly. There are stringent coordination and documentation requirements. See Evaluating Civilian Work Experience or contact the Evaluations office.
10. Can I transfer all courses I take at CTC to other colleges?
That depends entirely on the school to which you are planning to transfer (receiving institution). You must check with the receiving institution to determine how many and which courses they will accept.
11. Do I have to take departmental courses in the sequence listed on the program of study?
This is not required but is strongly recommended. Classes may not be offered every semester (see below). Many courses have prerequisites which have been considered in the established sequence.
12. Are all courses offered every semester?
No. Courses are offered in the semester they are listed on the program of study in the CTC catalog. The "First Semester" is fall while the "Second Semester" is spring. Courses with sufficient student demand are scheduled more often, but most courses are also offered online throughout the year.
13. Which departmental courses are offered in the summer?
Some first-semester courses are offered each summer in the classroom, but many more are available online.
14. When are the online departmental courses offered?
CTC offers online classes starting every semester. Exact dates can be checked by following this link: https://student.ctcd.org/Student/Courses Most departmental courses are offered in 12- and 16-week versions (10 weeks in the summer). The content is the same, but the shorter courses are much more intensive. A few courses (programming) are only offered in 16-week versions.
15. How do online courses differ from those in the classroom?
The content of the courses is the same, but there is no official lecture nor a specific time you must show up. All instruction is posted in Blackboard and via emails and messages. Unless you are in a self-paced course, there are also regular due dates for assignment. You must, however, check in regularly (several times a week).
16. Do I have to take every course listed on the program of study?
Yes, you must successfully complete all courses listed on the degree plan before a degree can be awarded. Also, most computer courses expire after 3 years, so be careful before taking a long break.
17. I have more questions about Computer Information Technology and Systems at CTC. Where can I find answers?
Contact the Computer Information Technology and Systems department at 254-526-1164 or e-mail Kira Savage, the department assistant, at ksavage@ctcd.edu, or stop by Bldg. 121, Room 227. We will be happy to answer your questions.